With Jessica’s

The movie had ended, and the blue light of the television danced on the walls. The wall clock showed close to midnight. Jessica still held Jason on her lap; the caresses had become softer, the kisses shorter, but the warmth remained the same. Jason was half-asleep, his head resting on Jessica’s chest, his breathing steady.

Jessica raised her head, looked at Chiara, and said softly:

"Chiara... Can I take Jason with me tonight?"

Chiara looked at her for a moment, then smiled; a warm smile, with no shadow of jealousy, only affection.

"Of course... Just take care of my husband."

She said the word "husband" jokingly, as if she knew that tonight, Jason was only "Jason," belonging to no one, just in the embrace of affection.

Chiara stood up, went to the closet, and brought a comfortable set of clothes for Jason: a loose gray T-shirt and soft shorts. She sat on the sofa, gently took Jason from Jessica, and sat him carefully on her own lap. She pulled the T-shirt over his head, pushed up the sleeves, and carefully put on the shorts. Her every move was like a mother preparing her child for sleep. Jason half-opened his eyes, smiled, and became drowsy again.

Jessica stood up, took Jason into her arms again; this time clothed, but still light, still calm. Chiara walked to the door and opened it. Before Jessica stepped out, Chiara kissed Jason; a long kiss on his forehead.

"Sweetie, don't bother your auntie, okay?"

Jason just smiled, his eyes closed.

Jessica, with Jason in her arms, walked out of the house. The night was cool, but the warmth of Jason's body in her embrace was enough. Her car was by the sidewalk. She opened the door, gently placed Jason in the passenger seat, buckled him in, and then got in herself. She started the engine.

Chiara stood at the door, waving.

Jessica smiled, shifted into gear, and slowly drove away.

In the car, Jason once again rested his head on Jessica’s shoulder.

And the night, with all its stars,

carried them to a new home;

a home built only of warmth..